Google has today launched a new tool for video conferencing called 'Chromebox for Meetings' that it says should make the process of making video calls in offices and homes easier and cheaper. The tool lets you connect with up to 15 participants at once. Launched at a price of $999 (which includes one year support) in US, Chromebox for Meetings will be available in other countries such as Australia, New Zealand, Canada, the United Kingdom, Japan, Spain and France over the coming weeks. Powered by Google's Chrome OS, the Chromebox operates Google Hangouts video chat technology and lets users plug in their display, complete the setup wizard and start with the conferencing. Moreover, the necessity for dial-in codes has been removed to introduce one-click remote that initiates the conversation. Just like other video conferencing tools, Chromebox supports sharing of your screen wirelessly.

As far as the specifications are concerned, Chromebox features a 4th generation Intel Core i7 processor, HDMI and DisplayPort++, USB3.0, Ethernet and built-in dual band Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n. The HD camera that comes along with the system supports up to 1920 x 1080 pixels resolution. It automatically switches resolution based on available bandwidth. The omnidirectional microphone features built-in DSP for speech clarity and filter for noise. The RF-based remote control sports full QWERTY keypad on the rear and nano-sized USB adapter.

If you are thinking of doing a video conference with a customer who isn't using Chromebox for meetings, know that all they will need is a Gmail account. Connecting to rooms that have traditional video conferencing systems is also possible using a new tool from Vidyo, and participants who prefer phones can join your meeting with a conference call number from UberConference. As per the reviews from some companies including Eventbrite, Gilt, oDesk and Woolworths, the tool is really simple to setup and that is what is its biggest USP.

The product however does not bring in anything new to the table, so it will compete with similar tools from Cisco Systems and Polycom. What do you think about the company's foray into the video-conferencing arena? Share your thoughts with us in comments below.

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